Foundational Concepts in Leadership

This final exam is an opportunity for you to prove your mastery of the foundational concepts presented in this course and

includes several essay questions (below). A well-written final exam will:

Show mastery of your learning/knowledge from this course

Clearly define and describe leadership theories

required for

Use critical thinking and analytical skills- that is, go beyond the obvious

Include citations to our course textbooks and other professional sources (e.g., journal articles, books, etc.)

Select and respond to TWO (2) of the essay questions below. Since you should only complete two questions, select the two that you feel will best demonstrate your mastery of the course concepts.

Your final exam should:

Identify each essay question you select (list the question number)

Be typed and double spaced, using APA format

Be 8-10 pages in length (not including your title and reference pages) Essay Selections (Respond to TWO (2) of the following questions):

Throughout this course, we’ve discussed a number of different perspectives on what makes an effective leader. The conclusion reached by most modern-day scholars in this field is that there is no one best way to lead; it depends on the situation, followers, etc. Suppose that in the year 2040, a researcher discovers that there is one existing theory regarding effective leadership that has been found to be applicable in all situations.

From your perspective, what would that theory be and why?

What is superior about this theory, and what is flawed in some of the other theories? Do you think it is possible to develop people to be great leaders? Apply trait, behavior and contingency perspectives when answering and indicate:

If you do not believe it is possible to develop great leaders, why not?

If you do believe it is possible to develop great leaders,

How would you go about doing so within an organization?

What key trait/behaviors would you develop?

What would be some key components of a leadership development program?

Whom would you include in the development program?

Choose your three (3) favorite theories from this course and provide a case study from your own observations at work or another setting to illustrate each theory in action. Be sure to define/describe the theory as you present your case study.

Many of our organizations face regular, large-scale changes. In fact, researchers argue that modern society has been inundated with changes, and we need to prepare our leaders to effectively lead such change initiatives. Describe an organizational change that you have recently encountered. What were the factors driving the change? What type of resistance did leadership face and why? If you were leading the change, what specific steps would you take to ensure the success of this endeavor?

When responding, be sure to describe your opinion of what it takes to be an effective leader in the 21st century. Also be sure to consider relevant course topics (beyond what was covered in Chapter 9 of Nahavandi) such as context, paradigms, cultural shifts and motivation.

Throughout this course and program, you have learned and will continue to learn perspectives, skills, approaches, etc. related to the topic of leadership. Now, with a foundational course to work from: What are some ways that you can apply your new learning to work or another setting?

What value would you add beyond what a person who just took a course in Management would have to offer offers In answering these questions, consider the differences between a Leader and a Manager, and be sure to discuss some of the theories from this course.

MUST CITE FROM: Nahavandi, A. (2015). The art and science of leadership. (7th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall. ISBN: 978-0133546767. Wren, J.T. (1995). The leader’s companion: Insights on leadership through the ages. New York, NY: The Free Press. ISBN: 978-0028740911.